Execution
- 1Position the patient prone or supine with both knees flexed to 30 degrees.
- 2Externally rotate both feet and compare tibial external rotation side to side.
- 3Repeat the test with both knees flexed to 90 degrees.
- 4Measure or estimates external rotation asymmetry.
- 5Interpret the 30-degree and 90-degree findings together.
Positive outcome
More than about 10 degrees greater external rotation at 30 degrees suggests posterolateral corner injury. Increased external rotation at both 30 and 90 degrees suggests combined posterolateral corner and PCL injury. Pain alone is not the main positive sign.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veltri et al. (1995) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| LaPrade et al. (2008) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
CommentThe dial test is a key clinical test for posterolateral corner injury, but technique and patient position influence results. It is better for pattern recognition than exact structure isolation. Use it with varus stress, PCL tests, and gait/recurvatum observations.
Moderate Clinical Value